15 Things to Remember on Your Next Hot Spring Adventure
Everyone loves a good hot spring. I mean, soaking in soul healing mineral water surrounded by nature? It doesn’t get much better than that. But with any great thing comes great responsibility–in an effort to keep these gorgeous natural areas clean, pristine, and environmentally sound, there are a few small things we need to keep in mind while visiting.
Here are 15 things to remember on your next hot spring adventure, plus what to pack!
Caldeira Velha, Sao Miguel, Açores
What To Pack for a Hot Springs Adventure
WATER and lots of it. Hot springs are dehydrating! I always carry a 32-oz water bottle and finish the entire thing by the end of my soak.
A microfiber towel. These are lightweight and quick drying and work great for a quick dry-off before throwing your clothes back on. This is the epic national parks towel I LOVE.
A z-mat or some other waterproof surface to lay your belongings while soaking.
A trash bag for your trash along with others' trash you find along the way. Help keep these places clean and pristine!
Waterproof sandals. I picked up a pair of these rubber knock-off Birkenstocks from Amazon. Highly recommend.
Hiking boots for longer walks. I basically live in my Danner Mountain 600s.
Clothes to change into. Making the trip home wet is no bueno. Make sure you have something dry to wear post soak for peak comfort.
Kirkham Hot Springs, Idaho
Hot Springs Etiquette:
15 Things to Remember on Your Next Hot Spring Adventure
1. Shower beforehand, if possible. Hot springs are very delicate, and it's super easy to accidentally introduce foreign bacteria that can disrupt its delicate chemical balance. Showering before entering can help their long-term health.
2. Keep it down. We visit hot springs to relax, and while Rainbow Kitten Surprise is calming for you, your neighbor might not agree. Read the room.
3. Never use soap. Again, hot springs are very delicate, and any foreign substance can hugely alter its natural balance. This includes biodegradable soaps and shampoos!
4. Stay hydrated! Hot springs are, well, hot, and can cause serious dehydration if your'e not careful. It's important to drink lots of water to ward off those "fainting spells" hot springs are known to cast. When it's time to leave, get up slowly. I never visit a hot spring without my 34-oz reusable, insulated water bottle.
Pine Flats Hot Springs, Idaho
5. Leave the glass behind. Breaking glass is (hopefully) never intentional, but accidents happen, and when they do, it can be dangerous, and broken glass can be nearly impossible to see.
6. Avoid peak times. Overcrowded springs aren't fun for anyone–it increases the negative impact on the springs, increases the chance of COVID exposure, and you could end up without a spot. Try to visit on weekdays if possible, and mornings are always best.
7. Are the hot springs on private land? If so, remember that this is a privilege. You're there as a guest.
8. Check for fees/permits/reservations. Every spring has its own rules and many do require fees, permits, or reservations to keep human impact to a minimum. Know before you go.
Boat Box Hot Springs, Idaho
9. Check road conditions. Wilderness springs, while amazing, can be pretty grueling to get to. Do your research ahead of time to make sure you're appropriately prepared. Are there potholes? How deep is the snow? Will you need 4WD?
10. Pack out what you pack in. Hot springs see a lot of visitors, and we all have our little luxuries we like during a hot soak, but all of those cans, snack wrappers, and underwear (this is more common than you think) need to accompany you back home as well. Many of these hot springs, especially those in national forests like Astoria, aren't regulated as well as they could be. Therefore, what you bring in will stay there until someone else packs it out for you. Don't put that burden on them. Do your part, respect the land, treat it as if it were your own property, and keep it clean and pristine for future use.
Cove Creek Hot Springs, Idaho
11. Don't pee in the springs! Just like pools and hot tubs, peeing (or pooping) in public springs is so not okay. Pools at least have chlorine and a cleaning system in place. Hot springs are as natural as can be, and any foreign substance can throw it off balance. We all know hot water loves to test our bladders, so consider peeing before getting in. (Make sure to pack out your toilet paper too!)
12. Leave your fur puppies at home.
13. Camping is allowed at Kirkham Hot Springs during the warmer months. Reserve in advance!
14. Leave it better than you found it!